Amit Shah on Pahalgam Terror Attack: "This is Not the End, We Will Avenge Every Life Lost," Home Minister's Firm Resolve

Union Home Minister Amit Shah strongly condemned the recent terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam region, where suspected Pakistan-backed terrorists opened fire on a bus carrying pilgrims. The attack left multiple people injured and triggered nationwide outrage. Speaking in New Delhi, Shah reiterated the government's unwavering commitment to its zero-tolerance policy against terrorism and assured citizens that India will respond with strength and precision. 

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“Let no one think that by shedding the blood of innocent Indians, they have won anything. This is not the end. It is a phase, and each attacker will be identified and punished. We will strike back, and justice will be served,” Shah said, addressing the nation.

The Incident

The attack occurred in the evening hours near Pahalgam, a well-known pilgrimage route. Preliminary reports suggest the bus was targeted with automatic gunfire while navigating a hilly road, resulting in a loss of control and a crash. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as emergency services rushed to evacuate the injured.

While no group has officially claimed responsibility, Indian security officials have pointed toward cross-border terror networks, allegedly operating from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Intelligence agencies had reportedly intercepted chatter indicating plans to target soft civilian groups in the region ahead of the peak tourist and pilgrimage season.

India’s Security Response

In response, security has been significantly tightened in the region. Additional forces have been deployed along pilgrimage routes, drone surveillance has increased, and intelligence gathering has been intensified. National Investigation Agency (NIA) teams have also been sent to the site, and forensic units are working to trace the origins of the attack.

Union Minister Amit Shah is also expected to chair a high-level meeting with officials from the Home Ministry, Jammu and Kashmir administration, and intelligence agencies to review the internal security situation.